Yes, it is that dreaded time of year where relevant information trickles in, leaving a lot of room for speculative articles. So, why not speculate our butts off and consider who might be standing at a podium or live streamed, accepting an Associated Press Award for the various awards they give out. I know many outlets hand out these awards, but I grew up with AP and I find them reputable enough for this exercise. No MVPs, just “Player of the Year” awards. Which Colt is most likely to win an AP award this year?
AP Offensive Player of the Year:
This is not the popularity contest that always picks a QB. As a matter of fact, Mahomes was the last QB to win the award, back in 2018. Four different WRs and three RBs have won the award since then. Our most likely nominations would be JT and Pierce. JT has put up those kind of numbers before and AP could if he gets as many targets as most #1 WR do. Any chance?
AP Defensive Player of the Year:
This is most often the game-wrecking DE, as Garrett has won two of the last three. JJ Watt is a three time winner, as is Donald. Lockdown CBs Surtain and Gilmore have also won sinc 2017. Latu improved last year and another leap like that could vault him into winning the award…Maybe? We do have a couple of corners with great reputations for taking away one side of the field, but could either Ward or Gardner pull in enough INTs to win it?
AP Offensive Rookie of the Year:
Next. Unless you think that Burks not only wins the WR3 battle and finds himself on the field, but he also turns into Daniel Jones’ favorite receiver and has a rookie season like Nacua, we don’t have a candidate. By the way, Nacua did not win the award.
AP Defensive Rookie of the Year:
There is precedent here. Darius Leonard was also a 2nd round draft choice, that stepped into a starting role and took over. CJ Allen could fit that role and Schwesinger did win the award as a 2nd rounder last year as well. Haulcey could be considered, but it seems like more of a reach.
How about AP Coach of the Year?
To win this, you need to either be the guy that just steamrolled everyone, or the guy who is perceived to do the most, with the least. Sometimes a rookie steps into the spotlight and gains a lot of momentum for the award. Given our preseason outlook from the masses, the Colts are not expected to be good, but maybe not bad enough for Steichen to be thought of to have “unlocked” something untapped. Besides, the league did see what we looked like at full strength, so it shouldn’t be a shock if we look good on offense again.
AP Assistant Coach of the Year:
This is relatively new to the AP. They have only given out the award since 2014. Since I can’t see that a Special Team’s Coach has ever won the award, lets assume that only Lou or Cooter could win this. Any offensive success will be given the Steichen, which essentially removes Jim Bob from consideration. If Lou does not win it this year, he may never get the opportunity again.
PFWA Executive of the Year:
Since AP does not give out an executive award, we would have to let PFWA choose this winner. Is there a world where Ballard not only does enough to impress his bosses, but does enough to match Brad Holmes and Howie Roseman as two-time Executives of the Year?
The Colts are obviously going to have to have a better season than national prognosticators are expecting, for any Colt to take home one of these prestigious awards. If the Colts do surprise, who is likely to get the most credit for that success? The answer to that question, may help you answer this week’s question:
Which Colt is most likely to take a Player, Coach, or Executive of the Year award?
I’m going to go with Shane. I’d say that Jones and JT would need to have equally great seasons and SS would get the credit for the offense in general, should that happen.
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!
